What types of schools do most expats in your city choose for their children?

Toronto residents are fortunate to have access to some of the best learning institutions in the country. Whatever level of education you seek - from junior kindergarten to university preparatory or adult learning courses - Toronto public and private schools offer excellent programs to suit the needs of most students.

Toronto does not, however, have an education system developed for international schools. There are several language schools that offer language immersion courses. However, the majority of expatriate children are sent to private schools and to public schools.

Parents in Ontario have the option of sending their children to the nondenominational public school system, Roman Catholic separate school system or a private school of their choice. The first two are covered by taxpayer dollars and the latter by the parents themselves per admission.
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What are some examples of these schools?

  • Toronto District School Board has 451 elementary schools and 102 o secondary schools.

  • Toronto Catholic School Board has 169 elementary schools and 34 secondary schools.

  • Some private schools include: Branksome Hall, Bayview Glen School, Cedar Grove School, Fern Hill School and Somerset Academy.

Contact your ward/community council to locate public, private and separate schools in and around your neighborhood. Also, contact Crown Toronto for assistance with selecting and applying to schools.
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Is there a lot of competition for spots in local schools?

Public schools are completely funded by the government through tax revenue. Therefore, there is no competition for places in local public schools. A predetermined grid of Toronto dictates the area in which your child may attend school, based on the ward you live in.

By contrast, private schools often require you to fill out an enrolment application. Some schools may also require a school interview with parent, child and school head accompanied by the child’s portfolio for enrolment.
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Are pre-schools also widely available (for children approx. 2 to 5 years old)?

Private and public elementary schools offer junior kindergarten and senior kindergarten for children ages 4 to 5.
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How are most kids transported to and from school?

  • School bus (funded by the government through tax revenue)

  • Public transportation (bus, streetcar, subway)

  • Walking (for students living within walking distance of the school)

  • Parents (some parents choose to drive their children on the way to work)

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When does the typical school year start and end?

Children are usually in school between 8:30 or 9:00 am to 3:30 or 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday - from September to the middle of June.

Schools are closed on all national holidays. In addition, all schools are closed between Christmas and New Year’s Day and for one week in March.
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Is there anything else I should know about local schools?

Please contact Crown Toronto with any questions or to arrange school search assistance.
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IMPORTANT NOTE:

Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Should you have any questions or need additional information, please contact your local Crown representative.